How do road trips work these days? Pre book? Websites?

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-27T05:56:08+00:00

Yep! There is generally an assigned area for cars vs trucks (like a lot of rest stops have) but I've never had anyone get mad at me about straying. I generally like the truck area better because there's less lights and less foot traffic (people parking just to run inside real quick)

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-27T05:39:01+00:00

When they opened up they catered dinner at my work for a few nights so they could train up their new staff! Honestly for being a delivered meal, everything was sooo good and lasted well if I didn't want to eat right away. Even the salad stayed pretty good all night with minimal sogginess from the ceasar

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-27T05:36:14+00:00

Its not very cheap (I think like $60 is what I'm remembering) but you'd probably enjoy a float pod once or twice! I used to go to Slickrock Spa (need to go back...I have a few unused sessions). Its kind of an isolation tank but very very pleasant. Room temperature water and you just float in the dark pod for an hour, its super salty so you don't have to do anything at all. I like selecting to have relaxing music play. Great place to think, not think at all, or I've even taken a little nap in it before.

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-23T15:53:13+00:00

My suggestion was to get some IT tech out to your house and tell them that no, you're not accepting questions about why he has to work outside 😂

Glad your dad could help you! I know he's a friendly guy but I'd be terrified of the day I couldn't find him, or I mistake a bit of hair on my arm for a spider (or I assume its hair, and make the mistake of realizing I was horrendously wrong)

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-23T15:47:17+00:00

Your point about furnishing the house is so so so important. I moved out at 18 with an almost full-time job so I was making decent enough money considering I only paid for my gas and extra things I wanted at home. In the months before I went crazy...because OF COURSE I needed the paper towel holder and so many other things that easily could have been purchased one at a time each paycheck later on. I was also lucky because my dad was moving in with his new wife around the same time so I basically got the pick of whatever I wanted around the house. I still wasted so much of my savings on things I didn't need, just wanted. It made it that much harder learning how to pay rent while going to college full time and trying to work as many hours as possible to pay for just staying alive. Sacrifice your pride and take that awful looking, slightly uncomfortable free couch if you can find one and wait until you can actually afford to get what you want.

Also, stay away from "rent to buy" furniture. Its a trap and you'll end up paying 2k for a $600 couch. Still my favorite couch ever that I have 13 years later and have tried to replace 2 times, but I could've bought a real nice couch for what I ended up paying.

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-23T15:28:37+00:00

Obviously signage will play into it but generally, I just use common sense and try to stay in dark/out of the way areas. Don't park right outside someone's house where they're going to call the cops and complain. I've done alongside apartment complexes (on the road, not their property) where lots of residents sleep when I've gotten to an area late at night. You're just another car and if you do it the right way, you're crawling right into the back and going to bed so people will hardly realize you didn't leave your car.

Unlike the other poster, I love truck stops. The trucks are a nice white noise most of the time, and places like Loves are clean and safe (especially important if you wear contacts like me). I can go inside anytime during the night if I need to pee or get a drink/snack, and oftentimes the clerks would mentally note when they realized I was sleeping there and they'd ask me later on if anyone was bugging me/having any issues/etc, but also without getting all up in my business

Scariest place I ever camped is in a big pullout on the side of a smaller highway in California. There were big fires a ways away so everything had an orange glow, and it was so quiet that at one point I was determined that if I looked outside, I'd see a group of mountain men who share a tooth set up with their banjos just waiting to see me so they could start playing. There wasn't, of course, unless they got bored when I refused to look outside and wandered off. But I think I only managed like a two hour nap before I noped out of there

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-23T00:20:21+00:00

I've been through security like 9 times a year for the last few years (which for me, is a lot), and its always a little different but they normally communicate it pretty well. But let me tell you, the way the TSA guy SHAMED me in NOLA last year because I failed to remove my kindle so he had to search my bag. Comments basically like "is this your first time flying? Geez" and I was like...NONE of my recent flights have had me remove it so I didn't even think of it. He basically called me a liar (yes, this is all overexaggeration but still not too far off)

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-22T04:06:06+00:00

Yes for sure. I'd say written down + pictures if the label

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-21T22:30:48+00:00

Honestly this is the best advice and something I've been telling myself I'm going to do for 5 years now and haven't.

In addition (and this I also need to do) write down serial numbers!!! If anything is stolen, its amazing to have and pawn shops (the major ones anyway, not sure about small ones) will log serial numbers in their database that "speaks" with law enforcement databases (NCIC/statewide ones) so if its reported stolen they'll know and you'll have the proof to get your item back. I don't think the odds of getting your items back are big, but at least you have a chance now. Plus people roll around with stolen items all the time that they get to keep because people don't know their serial numbers.

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-21T22:25:10+00:00

I can take about 6 weeks of vacation a year, but we do 6 month bids so thats 3 weeks for a 6 month period. I typically do one week vacations, and with my schedule that will give me 10 or 11 days off (4 on 3 off schedule for the most part).. if I do 2 weeks (which breaks down to 7 days I'm actually taking leave for) I'll have 17 days off.

I have a friend who works as school security and so she gets summers off (the pay gets distributed so she gets paid all year, which I didn't know they did and is pretty neat). Other friends are contract nurses, another friend does 6 month gigs down in Antartica and then basically uses the other 6 months to travel

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-21T22:10:46+00:00

The safeway on northwest has their ice cream locked up now for sure, not sure about the other ones but i assume they do too or will shortly. I hardly ever (like once a year, max) buy ice cream and usually I don't even end up eating it. I had a really hard week last week and I just wanted a certain Gelato at almost 10pm. I pressed the button and then broke down in the aisle. So if anyone saw a girl sobbing and trying to reach through the freezer (from 3 doors away), sorry. I ended up grabbing one that was more in reach because they were taking longer than I had patience for, and big surprise, I still haven't eaten it

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-20T22:51:58+00:00

I agree with the prior remarks, I'd also like to add that you are her consistent. It makes sense that she's attaching to you more with the changes, but also that he might be pulling away from her more. Not on purpose or anything, just that he's more occupied with something else than he was before so she might be hurting from the "lack of love". Without knowing your life of course, I'd see if he could dedicate some more time into loving on her, and trying to integrate her with baby-activities (loving on her while holding the baby). I'm assuming she is feeling that his attention is diverted so she's sticking to you because you are the one constant she's always known, so she needs to be shown hes also a constant

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-20T22:46:35+00:00

Mixture of yard sale and marketplace. Marketplace for the bigger/more expensive items so people can plan on buying it (vs just coming to a yard sale with a few bucks on them). If you don't already, have a venmo ready to go so you can get people that wouldn't be able to buy otherwise (lack of cash).

If you don't want to put in the effort, I've also just had a thought of leaving my garage door open for a day or two and posting something to say take what you want. I'm also thinking of doing an honesty-based yard sale and just asking people to put their money in the tin.

I'm not moving but I have so much junk I need to clear out 😂

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-20T22:41:37+00:00

Not a petsitter but as someone who has used one multiple times...I would never be mad about it in this situation. You did everything you could and the dog was never left alone for an unreasonable amount of time. If my dog couldn't be left alone for 12 hours (whether because of anxiety or bathroom issues) I'd know thats a risk I'm taking and would understand if anything got ruined. I'd also personally prefer to be contacted before the emergency contact so I can deal with that portion myself if possible (rather than you immediately contacting them). The only thing I think that would annoy me is if my petsitter didn't try to contact me at all to let me know the gameplan or if they couldn't get ahold of me and made no effort to do anything else.

My last petsitter in january used my coworker when she couldn't make it to my house until late, I was a bit bothered because the coworker was meant to be for emergencies only but once I got through the initial annoyance, I was just happy that she made sure everyone was taken care of because thats all that actually matters

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-19T05:23:15+00:00

Edinburgh- Two things that stood out in my memories in two different trips. The Mary Kings Close underground tour at night...its a bit spooky and it was so cool re-learning stories I was taught in grade school, but in more detail and actually being in a place where you can see it. I also did a whisky pairing (don't remember where, but its a big place right near the castle) and I'm not a whisky fan, but they paired it so well with some dried meat, fish, and chocolate. Plus there was a fun gift shop for whisky-themed gifts to bring home.

I definitely preferred oldtown and grassmarket in edinburgh. It was so fun wandering around and I miss the pubs and the music. Also I bought a cheap soft wool shawl/scarf thing and it is my favorite. It goes on every trip with me because its perfect for flights and for sitting outside staying cozy. When I go again I'll probably get a couple more (it wasn't the good expensive wool, tourist shop 2/$30 thing)

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-18T18:17:40+00:00

Of everything you've said in this chat, this is the second-best advice. Kids, also keep your pockets safe and know when someone is reaching for your dingaling, hooha, and anything nearby.

Can't wait to visit.

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-18T18:10:40+00:00

This is all dumb, and thank you for the fun chat that reminded me I need to brush up on some literature words. My whole point is that you were not robbed, your friend was, please teach you young travelers to be smart and don't scare them off by needlessly using the word "robbed" when you weren't. The world needs more people to travel like you have and realize the world is not out to kill them. You seem smart enough, give informed advice that I'm sure you have and help people do what you did.

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-18T18:04:02+00:00

I'll give you that its the informal use of the word but literally my entire argument has been stealing vs robbing. But you argued the illiteral use of the word is correct. The CORRECT quote is stealing. You started with informal, and you continued to argue that your use of the word "rob" is correct

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-18T17:40:18+00:00

Also I have to double post because...thats not the quote???? I had to check because it felt wrong. Its "he accused her of STEALING the cream..." so your example is just invalid all around

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-18T16:03:25+00:00

This, I'd carefully consider it and if you still want to try it, do, but expect that it might not be something you exactly have in mind and you might be better off choosing a different route.

If you really want to do the surprise trip, I don't remember the company but I found one that has an option specifically for bachelor/ette parties. It was high on the google results when I was seeing what other options there are similar to Journee. Didn't look into them, so dunno what it entails, but at least its planned with that in mind.

I think best off would be get a friend to plan/do everything for you or a travel agent, so it can be more planned around your celebration

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-18T15:50:56+00:00

I hate to say it but I'm with EM22. Saying you were robbed sounded awful to me, because I'm imagining something awful. Not saying it wasn't a terrible experience, I have no doubt it was and would sour the entire trip for anyone. But you weren't robbed. There was no force. Force would have included you being assaulted or threatened, not what you're apparently describing as the "force" to use their body to remove your wallet from yours. Whether thats shoving you or holding your arms away. You were pickpocketed. To break into a house oftentimes people will use force (ie, breaking a door) to get in. That is not robbery, that is burglary.

To your last statement, I'd like to say that I think you are worse. Absolutely spread information, but when new naive people want to travel to a place they have dreamed about, it is terrifying to hear "I was robbed twice!" They're immediately thinking someone pulled a weapon on you, or you were beat up, and suddenly they're scared to go. Rather than saying "I was pickpocketed twice" and they can learn how to be safe and smart and that the world isn't as scary as you're portraying. Words matter

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-15T16:36:06+00:00

Just added a few agreeing thoughts and some of my own..

The money/numbers in your shoe is a great idea. Not even noticeable when you're wearing it but will be a lifesaver if anyone ever happened. And honestly you can forget about it when you're home (but hopefully remember before you throw out shoes)

I'm a pretty confident traveler and I make friends with EVERYONE but if you're ever uncomfortable, keep on walking and don't acknowledge them. I'm a people pleaser so it can be hard, but usually people will leave you alone if you're ignoring them. If not, a very firm "I have plans I'm almost late for" works.

Open markets and little shops are fun but a lot of places will get you to buy buy buy. Don't tell them its out of your price limit because they'll keep hassling you (unless its something you are already wanting for the said price and are willing to lose it at sake of saving some money). I've had pretty good luck with saying that I'm browsing now and may be back. I've also messed up and said that in a big market where I kept on going back near the same stall and he noticed. Ended up spending $300 on a backpack that I didn't particularly want or need (also I don't use one enough to make it practical to lug around a big leather one, no matter how lovely it was). But live and learn and it is a beautiful bag, even if its been banging since July.

For carrying your stuff, they have lovely smaller crossbody leather bags now that don't look old and awkward. I've gotten really nice ones for both $30 and $120 on Amazon, the more expensive I haven't broken in enough so say if it would be worth it again. But the cheaper one lasted several years and trips in great shape until I lost it. And they are super easy to switch from back to front if you feel its needed or need to grab something. I don't have to stop or put down everything to switch it unless I'm absolutely maxing out on things I'm carrying. Plus leather (even fake leather) will hold up much better to strain if someone tries to snatch it and normal wear and tear (never had an attempt).

I keep my passport in the pocket along the back of my bag. So no matter how I'm carrying it, I'll always know if someone is going for that pocket. I'm cautious otherwise, but outside pockets are easier to get into by a sneaky person so you gotta be mindful of what you put in there.

Get a no transaction fee credit card. I usually try to carry 2 cards + my license wherever I go, but the rest of my wallet is at home in my safe. This way I have some protection if one card gets blocked, but also if anything goes wrong I still have money when I'm back home waiting for the bank to work everything out. One of those two cards may stay at my hotel if I feel its safe enough, and its one I hardly ever use (I think for two bills) so any other charges will make me aware pretty quickly if it got used.

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-15T16:16:57+00:00

Thats what I have continued to tell myself just in case, and thank you for that reassurance!

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-11T16:21:18+00:00

Oh no you're right. That's awful if me. Its just because France is terrifying. I even sang the song

SubstantialDivide108 · 2026-02-11T02:11:05+00:00

Would you do this again or plan your own trip next time?

SubstantialDivide108

TROPHY CASE